 Page 1 A-C D-K L-R S-ZPutting Wildlife on the map The nature reserves of the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust represent some of the finest examples of the county's rich heritage - ancient woodland, chalk and limestone grassland, flower-rich hay meadows, a fen and an acid heathland bog. The clay and greensand vales Although much of the land is now managed as arable and improved pasture, some areas remain as flower rich hay meadows with ancient hedges and waterways adding to the variety of habitats. These areas contain many valuable ancient woodlands, some with scarce species like the wild service tree. In spring the woodlands are a delight when the bluebells, wood anemones and primroses are in flower. The Downs Wiltshire contains the largest remaining areas in the UK of unimproved chalk grassland or downland. The downs are of international importance for their wildlife. Centuries of grazing has resulted in conditions that are ideal for an abundance of species including cowslips, wild thyme, devil's bit scabious and many types of orchid. The Cotswolds The Cotswolds in north west Wiltshire include a mosaic of habitats, with numerous small ancient woodlands, and patches of species-rich limestone grassland and scrub. The beautiful valley of the Bybrook is set in a valley steeped in history and supports a rich variety of plants and animals. At the edge of the Cotswolds gravel has been extracted leaving extensive areas of open water. These lakes support large numbers of overwintering birds including nationally important populations of birds such as the great-crested grebe. Wiltshire's rivers The county contains some of the country's finest rivers. The Salisbury Avon, for example, is of national importance, and is a classic example of a chalk river. Twenty-four species of fish and the wide variety of insect life living in the Avon reflect a healthy river system. The New Forest The south-east corner of Wiltshire is typical of the New Forest with heathland, wood pasture and ancient woodland. The area is particularly important for reptiles and the lichens living on the old trees. Page 1 A-C D-K L-R S-Z |
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